Papaya Fool

Papaya Fool With Tofu???

Any ingredient that helps reduce calories and contribute to overall health is something I’m gradually incorporating into my family’s everyday eating. But I’ve always shied away from tofu because it’s not my thing and would always go to waste. But no more! From now on, I’m making the most of it.

What Is Papaya Fool?

Papaya fool is a traditional British mousse-like dessert made with pureed fruit and custard or whipped cream—a simple dessert that requires very little time. I replaced the custard with tofu and included coconut cream, lime, and brown sugar.

Recipe Ingredients

1. Papaya is the leading player in this game. The riper the papaya, the sweeter it will be.
2. Tofu delivers the creamy substance that turns this dessert into a fool. Typically, you would use a custard to carry the papaya’s flavor.
3. Coconut cream replaces dairy, but you can substitute coconut milk with a tablespoon of coconut milk powder. Asian markets usually have powdered coconut, which intensifies the flavor if you prefer milk instead of cream.
4. Brown sugar sweetens this delectable dessert, but you could leave it out if your papaya is sweet enough.
5. Lime juice enhances flavor without overpowering it. That fresh burst of acidity balances the papaya’s sweetness.

How to Make Papaya Fool

• Prep Papaya – Peel the papaya, cut it into small pieces, and place them in a food processor. Blend until coarsely puréed. Set aside.
• Puree – Place the tofu and coconut cream in a food processor. Process until creamy, then add sugar, lime juice, and vanilla. Stir or pulse to combine.
• Mix – In a large bowl, gently fold the papaya puree into the creamy tofu blend until blended. Garnish with mint and serve immediately.

Recipe Variations

1. Fruit swap. Trade out the papaya with pineapple, mango, peaches, etc. Let your imagination go wild.
2. Custard swap. The traditional egg and cream custard with the papaya is also delicious.

Tips and Tricks

1. Select a ripe papaya (reddish orange). It should feel heavy for its size, and if it’s a little less ripe than ideal, let it ripen at home to bring out its natural sweetness. When fully ripe, it should be reddish orange inside—sweet, juicy, and soft.
2. Have all your ingredients cold for a more refreshing dessert. Or let it chill in the fridge for an hour or two before serving.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Any fool dessert is a great make-ahead. Puree, assemble, pour into your cute serving glasses, and refrigerate covered for 2-3 days. Ready to go when you are.

Serving and Storage Instructions

While you could serve this deliciousness straight from the blender, the flavor does improve if you chill it an hour or two before serving.

Refrigerate leftover papaya fool in an airtight container for 3-4 days or freeze it for 3-4 months. You could even enjoy it frozen like ice cream.

What to Serve With Papaya Fool

This refreshing afternoon treat is great as-is on a hot day, but it’s also the perfect finish for Thai basil chicken or curry fish.

More Satisfying Tropical Dessert Recipes to Try

1. Malva Pudding
2. Caribbean Black Cake
3. Passion Fruit Pudding Cake
4. Pineapple Pound Cake
5. Key Lime Pie
6. Ambrosia